Common Data Set

Introduction

The Common Data Set (CDS) initiative is a collaborative effort among data providers in the higher education community and publishers as represented by the College Board, Peterson’s–Thomson Learning, U.S. News & World Report, and Wintergreen/Orchard House. The combined goal of this collaboration is to improve the quality and accuracy of information provided to all involved in a student’s transition into higher education.

The CDS contains data on such topics as admissions, enrollment, retention, classes, activities, policies, and costs for each contributing institution.